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How to Organize a Storage Unit: 6 Tips to Get You Started

A man sits at a desk with his computer and creates a list to organize a storage unit at South Rock Storage

Are you considering renting a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS? If so, it's essential to be organized and plan to make the most of the space. Check out these six tips for getting started.

How to Organize Your Items in Self-Storage Units

1. Use shelves for boxes and other items.

Using shelves is a great way to organize your boxes, books, and other items you plan to use frequently. They're also helpful for keeping the floor clear of clutter and making it easier to move throughout your storage unit.

Although any shelving will technically work, we recommend sturdy shelving with a high weight limit to easily handle anything you place on it. When setting up your shelving unit, place heavy items near the bottom, fragile (or light) items at the top, and items that you frequently use on the middle shelves.

Next, make sure all your boxes are labeled. Being well organized helps you remember where everything is or even helps a friend if they're getting something from your unit on your behalf!

After this step, try to organize the items by category (clothing vs. tools vs. sports gear), so related items are grouped and easier to find.

2. Label everything with a list of the contents.

Labeling every box you put in your unit is essential, whether it's full or empty. People often misplace items in their storage units because they cannot remember which unit they put them in. Labeling your boxes will always know where your belongings are, and you won't have to waste time searching through multiple units.

Labeling is also an effective way to keep track of items after they have been moved into your home when you unpack them again after moving out of storage into your new place! It may seem overkill at first because there will only be a few things left in each box, but it just becomes second nature after a while.

3. Fold clothing and linens neatly to save on space.

Folding is the easiest way to save space in a self-storage unit. To fold clothes and linens, first lay them flat on a surface so that the long edges are parallel (this will create an "L" shape).

Fold the bottom third of your piece of clothing up toward where it meets at the top, then fold it in half along its length.

Finally, fold both sides inward toward one another until they meet at their respective middle points (like folding in half) and place them into your storage unit together with their seams facing outwards so that any dirt or dust won't get trapped inside when you open them later on!

4. Create a list of what is in each box so that you can easily find each item.

If you feel overwhelmed by the size of your storage unit, creating a list of what's in can be helpful. After all, one of the main reasons people use self-storage units is because they need extra space for their stuff! But if you don't know what's in the unit already, how will you know what else needs to go in?

Here are a few tips when creating a list:

  • Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have a box labeled "summer clothes," include a list of every item inside the box. This way, you will know precisely what is in the box and where to find it when you need it.
  • Include the box number, what is in the box, and where it is located.
  • Store the list with your other essential documents in a fireproof lockbox. This way, it will be protected from water damage and other disasters.
  • Keep adding new things to your list as you move more boxes into your storage unit. If something gets lost or forgotten, you will have a comprehensive list of contents for each box to find whatever needs finding quickly!

5. Store large items like bikes and furniture against the walls.

If you have larger items like bicycles or furniture, it's best to store them against the walls of your self-storage unit. This will free up space in the middle of the unit so that you can store other things, and it will also help to protect your belongings from getting damaged if someone accidentally bumps into them while walking around.

To maximize space, you can also disassemble furniture before storing it in the unit. For example, take the legs off a table or the mattress and box spring off a bed frame. Just make sure to label all the pieces, so you know how to put them back together later! Another tip is to keep the legs and machinery (screws) together by tape or in a clear plastic bag so that everything is there when you go to reassemble.

6. Use a floor plan.

Just like moving into an apartment or home, having a floor plan will help keep everything organized and tidy. You might want to consider making sure that everything has its place, especially if it's something large like furniture pieces or appliances (think washing machines). Consider putting the items you want to use the closest to the front and the longer-term storage items in the back. This will save time when looking for where something goes when needed again.

Creating a floor plan is easy! Take a measuring tape and measure out the dimensions of your storage unit. Then, use graph paper to draw out a scale model of the space. Finally, start placing your belongings in the unit according to the floor plan.

Final Thoughts

If you take time to organize before you move in, then it will be easy to find what you need when you need it later.

Self-storage units can be a great way to keep your belongings safe and sound while you're in between homes or even need extra space. That way, it will be accessible when you need to find something later! But before you start packing everything into boxes, it's essential to take some time to think about how you're going to organize everything.

Contact South Rock Storage today to learn more about our self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas! We have a variety of sizes and amenities to choose from so that you can find the perfect unit for your needs. Give us a call or stop by our facility today!

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5 Things You Didn’t Know About Storage Unit Auctions

Are you interested in buying at storage unit auctions in Wichita, Kansas? This guide listed 5 things you probably didn't know about them. Read on.

When most people think about storage unit auctions, they think about the popular television show Storage Wars. While this show is entertaining, it can also be misleading. Storage unit auctions are not like the scenes in the show. There is no excitement or fighting over items. The reality is that it is a lot like a garage sale. There are many misconceptions about auctions at storage facilities. Below are some things you may not know: What is a Storage Unit Auction Storage unit auctions are a recent trend in the United States, and they're exactly what they sound like: an auction of storage units. The storage units are opened, and the bidders can look at everything that's inside before placing a bid. Individuals or businesses who have failed to pay their rent or abandoned their possessions will often have the contents sold at auction. Most storage auctions are handled by a third-party company. This company does the auction, takes payment for the units, and handles all of the paperwork for you. Why Are Belongings Left Abandoned? There are a few possible reasons why items are often left abandoned. Some are as follows: The tenant never bothered to move their belongings out, even after the rental agreement expired. The tenant may have passed away, and their family never claimed the belongings. The tenant may have simply abandoned the unit and moved on without their possessions. Whatever the reason, it's not uncommon to find abandoned storage units littered with old furniture, boxes, and other random items. What Can You Find in Storage Auctions Storage auctions are a great place to find a variety of items at a low price. The most common type of item you will find at an auction in a storage facility is furniture, but you can also find appliances, tools, and other household items. Note though that not everything you find here is valuable. People often attend these kinds of auctions because they are looking for a good deal on items. However, it is important to remember that not everything in the unit being auctioned will be worth buying. In fact, most of the time there will be very few valuable items in the unit. It is important to really take the time to look at the items before making a bid. Moreover, it's also important to remember that you can't always trust what you see. In fact, you must always remember the inherent risk of bidding at an auction. There are simply many things that you can be unaware of - from hidden damage to missing parts - that you cannot always trust what you see. So before you go bidding on that locker full of "treasures," take a moment to consider the risks involved and whether or not it's really worth taking the chance. Know Your Storage Auction Rules There are no specific rules or guidelines in an auction, and things can quickly get out of control if you do not know what you are doing. Make sure you know what you are doing when you attend an auction. Always seek to clarify the rules of the event and if you have questions or uncertainties, never be afraid to seek help. It is open to the public Auctions are open to the public so that anyone can bid on the units. However, be aware that you may not get the best deal possible if you're not familiar with how the bidding process works. The best way to maximize your chances of getting a good deal is to attend an auction or two and watch how the process works. This will give you a better understanding of when to bid and how much to bid. Keep in mind that most units are auctioned off in bulk, so don't expect to get a lot of high-end items for cheap prices. But if you're looking for some good deals on basic household items, storage auctions are definitely worth checking out. It often takes place on weekends Weekends are when most people have free time to attend. The units are usually auctioned off in the order that they were rented, so the earliest units to be rented are usually auctioned first. The auctions usually last for a few hours, and there is a lot of bidding for the best units. Sometimes people will even start bidding before the auction begins in order to get a good unit. People often get very excited at auctions because there is the potential to find some great treasures. You do not need to be present to win You can still win an auction without being there. Yet, there are a few things that you will need to do in order to participate in an auction without being there. First, you will need to find a reputable auction company. Next, you will need to register for the auction and provide a method of payment. Finally, you will need to make sure that you have read and understood the terms and conditions of the auction. Once you have taken care of these things, you can relax and wait for the results of the auction. You have to be prepared to make a quick decision When you go to an auction, there is a minimum bid that you have to put in if you want to participate in the auction. However, at some auctions, there is no minimum bid, so you can bid as little as you want. This can be helpful if you're looking for a bargain or if you're not sure how much something is worth. It also means that someone could potentially win an auction with a very low bid, so it's important to know what you're bidding on and be prepared to pay what the item is worth. When you go to an auction, the bidding typically starts at 50% of the total. This is referred to as the opening price. Keep in mind that this is just the starting point, and the price can go up from there. In order to get an idea of what the final price might be, you need to take into account how much inventory is being auctioned off. If there are a lot of items for sale, then the price will likely go up. Conversely, if there are not many items being auctioned off, then the price could potentially go down. The bidding increments at an auction are typically $5 or $10. This means that when someone bids, the next bid must be at least $5 higher than the previous bid or $10 higher than the previous bid. This system keeps the bidding going and prevents people from just bidding a dollar amount and walking away with the unit. It also ensures that people are serious about buying the unit. It can be unpredictable Storage auctions can be unpredictable. For example, one person might bid on a unit with the intention of finding valuable items to sell, while another person might bid on the same unit with the intention of finding furniture or other household items they can use in their home. This means that the final price of a storage unit can vary drastically depending on who is bidding and how much they are willing to pay. This is all part of the fun! You've Won Your Storage Unit, Now What? The highest bidder wins the unit and many times is responsible for paying all of the fees, including the auctioneer's commission and any storage charges that have accrued since the unit was last paid for. In addition, bidders are typically required to put down a deposit in order to participate in an auction, which is often refundable if they do not win the property. Finally, it's important to be aware of the closing costs, which can include transfer taxes, title insurance, and other fees. Final Thoughts If you wish to know more about storage auctions, don't hesitate to contact South Rock Storage, a reliable storage facility in Wichita, KS. At South Rock Storage, auctions may be hosted once a month if there are units that have been abandoned.
A well-lit hallway at South Rock Storage showing the climate-controlled units available

5 Most Popular Self-Storage Sizes

When it comes to self-storage, size matters. The most popular sizes for self-storage range from 50 sq.ft. to larger 300 sq.ft. units.

Self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas are becoming an increasingly popular choice for people who need more space to store their belongings. With various storage unit sizes to choose from, there's something for everyone, no matter where they live. This article will look closely at some of the most common self-storage sizes and explore how different people use them. Why Do People Use Self-Storage Facilities? Most people choose self-storage for short-term or temporary use, but it can also be a good option for long-term storage. It can be used for business or personal storage and is a convenient way to store items that are not being used regularly. There are many reasons why people use self-storage, but some of the most common causes include: Moving to a new home: If you're moving to a new home, self-storage can be a convenient way to store your belongings until you're ready to move them into your new home. Downsizing: If you're downsizing your home, self-storage can be a great way to store items that won't fit your new home. Storing seasonal items: Seasonal items, such as Christmas decorations or summer sports equipment, can be stored in self-storage units until they are needed again. Business storage: Self-storage can be an excellent option for businesses that need extra storage space to store inventory, essential documents, or other business-related items. Car storage: Self-storage units can also be used to store vehicles. It can be a convenient way to store a car you don't use often or a classic car you want to keep in storage. Generally, the smallest size option is typically referred to as a "personal locker," and it's perfect for storing small items like clothes, books, or small electronics. Larger units are helpful for those looking to keep furniture, appliances, or other oversized items that don't fit in their homes or offices. And oversized commercial units come in handy for businesses seeking extra storage space to store inventory or supplies. Plus, with climate-controlled options available in most cases, self-storage facilities make it easy to protect your belongings against damage from extreme temperatures or moisture. So whether you are decluttering your home or growing your small business, self-storage can help meet your needs and give you the extra space you need. Now that we understand some of the reasons people use self-storage let's look at the five most popular sizes and see how they are used. What Are the Most Popular Self-Storage Sizes, and What Do They Include? 5'x10' - 50 sq.ft This is the smallest unit that can hold the contents of one room and is often used by people who are moving to a new home and need somewhere to store their belongings until they can unpack. It can fit a couch, a dresser, a few boxes, and some small items. It's also a popular size for businesses that need extra space to store inventory or other business-related items. 10'x10' - 100 sq.ft A 10'x10'' storage unit is an excellent option if you need a lot of space. It can hold the contents of a three-bedroom home, from couches and tables to boxes of clothes and kitchen appliances. This is the most popular option for people moving or renovating their homes. The unit is also big enough to store more oversized items like bicycles, patio furniture, and kayaks. 10'x15' - 150 sq.ft When you need extra space for your belongings, a 10'x15' storage unit provides plenty of room. This size can hold the contents of a four-bedroom home, including sofas, beds, dining tables, and large appliances. It's often used by people who are remodeling their homes or have many items to store. If you need even more space, a 10'x20'x8' unit will give you plenty of room to store the contents of several rooms. Businesses often use this size for inventory storage or for people who are moving. 10'x20' - 200 sq.ft The 10'x20', often referred to as a "loft-size" unit, is one of these facilities' most popular and versatile sizes. This size is the perfect choice for storing the contents of a large home or apartment, including furniture, appliances, artwork, and other items. Whether moving to a new city or going on an extended vacation, a loft-size storage unit can help you keep all your belongings safe and secure while you are away. And with 24/7 access and convenient features like drive-up access and climate control options, self-storage truly has everything you need for stress-free storage solutions. 10'x30' - 300 sq.ft. The largest size offered by most self-storage facilities is the 10'x30' unit, which offers 300 square feet of space. This size is often used for long-term storage or for storing large items that won't fit in a smaller unit. Some of the items you can store in a 10'x30' unit include: A car or boat Furniture Appliances Boxes of clothes and other household items Business inventory With so much space, the 10'x30' unit is perfect for storing just about anything. So if you need a place to keep your belongings safe and sound, self-storage is the ideal solution. Final Thoughts Now that you know the most popular self-storage sizes, you can decide which one is right for your needs. Self-storage can give you extra space if you're moving to a new home or need extra space for your belongings. If you are looking for a reliable self-storage facility in Wichita, Kansas, don't go further than South Rock Storage. We offer a variety of storage sizes to meet your needs, and our friendly staff is always available to help you choose the right size for your belongings. If you're unsure which size to choose, our experts can help you select the right unit for your needs. Call us today at 316-816-8282 and remember that our units are always clean and well-maintained, so you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe and sound. We also offer climate-controlled units and 24-hour surveillance. Contact us today to learn more about our self-storage options!
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Book your unit today!

If you are looking for an affordable storage facility with a clean atmosphere, top-notch security, and a friendly staff you've come to the right place.
FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in? 

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out? 

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space? 

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment? 

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store? 

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates? 

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept? 

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease? 

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock? 

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.

What are the office hours? 

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM – 5PM
Saturday: 9AM – 4PM
Monday, Sunday: CLOSED

We're conveniently located in Wichita, KS

8282 East Oak Knoll St.,
Wichita, KS 67207

Contact us

We're here to help you find the perfect unit.

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Office Hours
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 9AM - 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 5PM
Thursday: 9AM - 5PM
Friday: 9AM - 5PM
Saturday: 9AM - 3PM
Sunday: CLOSED
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